Anna Ford
Many highly successful people struggle to make their authentic voice heard. They may have worked so hard professionally that they’ve failed to develop other sides of their personality. They tell me they feel less confident in personal and social situations, or even that they give the impression to others of remoteness, and a lack of social confidence. By giving them permission to be themselves, my work with clients helps them to relax, find their true voice and to engage openly with others in ways that make them feel self-assured in any situation they may face.
Experience
Whilst Anna draws on her experience as a broadcaster, other roles and experiences play a huge part in her work with clients. In her early life, she forced herself to participate in public debates and student politics to overcome shyness. Her early career teaching young adults and mature students developed her awareness of other peoples’ sensitivities and needs. As a journalist and broadcaster, Anna learned how to understand people and their situations quickly, so as to get as close to the truth as she could on the day. In her public interest and corporate roles, she has learned how to contribute effectively to large organisations with demanding agendas as well as manage a portfolio of diverse roles. Last, but not least, raising her two daughters as a single parent helped Anna to learn what it is like to dig deep into ones own character and resources, in order to have a good life and succeed.
For relaxation, Anna enjoys walking, gardening, reading and travelling.
Professional Expertise
Anna has coached public performance skills for more than twenty years. She enjoyed a distinguished career as a broadcaster and journalist, since when she has developed a portfolio career associated with a range of organisations and subjects in which she has a deep interest.
Education, Qualifications, Professional Positions
Non-Executive Director, J Sainsbury PLC and Chair of the Corporate Responsibility Committee
Honorary Bencher of the Middle Temple
Trustee, Forum for the Future
Fellow, Royal Geographical Society
BA (Hons) in Economics and a Diploma in Adult Education, both from Manchester University
Former Chancellor of Manchester University
Former Chairman, Index on Censorship
Former Trustee, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
LEADERS IN EXECUTIVE COACHING

